Loading chat...
MD HB1536
Bill
Status
2/13/2026
Primary Sponsor
Lesley Lopez
Click for details
AI Summary
-
Prohibits persons (including state/local government employees, contractors, and sheriffs) from knowingly aiding immigration enforcement in ways that violate constitutional rights, unless required by judicial warrant or state/federal law
-
Defines "aiding immigration enforcement" as providing warrantless access to restricted areas, sharing personal information with immigration authorities, or detaining individuals by force or deceit to make them accessible to immigration authorities
-
Requires anyone who interacts with immigration enforcement to document cooperation instances, retain records for at least 5 years, and notify affected individuals whose information was shared
-
Authorizes civil lawsuits by injured persons and Attorney General enforcement actions, with courts able to award economic/noneconomic damages, injunctive relief, attorney's fees, and civil penalties up to $25,000 per violation
-
Allows the Board of Public Works to void or condition state procurement contracts with violators, and permits licensing authorities to suspend or revoke professional licenses for violations; effective October 1, 2026
Legislative Description
Maryland Enforcement Limits and Transparency (MELT) Act
Records
Last Action
Hearing 3/11 at 2:00 p.m.
3/11/2026